An energy specialist has unveiled a straightforward method that could put hundreds of pounds back into British households' pockets this winter, but emphasises that timing is absolutely crucial.
The Winter Price Squeeze
With energy costs continuing their upward trajectory, countless families across the UK are feeling the financial strain as colder weather sets in. The situation intensified when Ofgem's price cap increased by 2% in October 2025, setting the typical annual dual-fuel bill at £1,755 for households paying by direct debit.
While this figure remains substantially lower than the peak crisis levels of early 2023—representing a £625 (26.3%) reduction—many consumers continue to struggle with affordability. This financial pressure has driven numerous people to seek advice through social media platforms, where Reddit users have been openly sharing their varying energy expenses.
The Switching Solution
Stephen Hankinson, an energy efficiency expert at Electric Radiators Direct, provides clear guidance for those looking to reduce their outgoings. "Switching energy suppliers can be one of the quickest and most effective ways to save money on your energy bills this winter," Hankinson explains.
The potential savings are significant. Despite the current price cap, many energy companies are offering tariffs that undercut it substantially. "Some energy companies are offering tariffs that are up to 18% cheaper than the cap," says Hankinson. "This would mean up to £315 off your annual price cap bill."
The expert recommends households begin by checking their recent bill or online account to understand their current tariff and its expiration date, information that should be clearly listed.
Timing Your Switch Perfectly
Knowing when to make your move is equally important as deciding to switch. Hankinson identifies the optimal switching window as when you're "coming to the end of a fixed-rate deal."
For households that secured a one-year fixed deal in November 2024, "now is the perfect time" to explore alternatives. Energy providers must notify customers when their contract approaches its conclusion, and consumers have a valuable window of opportunity: "If you're within 49 days of the end date, you can switch without paying any exit fees."
Hankinson advises those who have recently signed new fixed tariffs to "make a note in your calendar of when you are 49 days away from the end date," as this marks the ideal time to begin searching for competitive deals again.
The process itself is designed to be hassle-free. Switching energy providers "shouldn't take longer than five working days" and comes with the reassurance that "your energy supply won't be interrupted," ensuring households stay warm throughout the transition.
For those concerned about tariff types, Hankinson notes that "fixed rate tariffs can often be the best choice" as they lock in rates even if broader energy prices increase. Conversely, households that have remained on the same tariff for over a year may have been automatically moved to "standard variable tariff, which is often one of the most expensive" options.
The expert concludes with straightforward advice: "If you can find a fixed deal less than the October price cap or even less than the 2% increase, you will be saving money on your energy bill."
